World Champion Air Guitarist

Coming to the Musical Instrument Museum

As if to prove the saying you can do anything if you set your mind to it, Dan Crane decided one day to become a world champion air guitar player.  And you know what, he did it.  Zona Junior Reporter Kaci Demarest  got the chance to talk to Dan before his visit to the Musical Instrument Museum this Saturday the 19th. Read more to learn about this amazing guy and don’t forget to buy tickets to his “Aireoke” event at MIM. After all, to air is human.

Kaci: When did you become interested in playing the air-guitar?
Dan: I’ve played air guitar since I was a kid – I used to put on concerts for my family. Then in 2003, I discovered there was actually a world championship in air guitar. It
sounded ridiculous. Obviously, I had to sign up.
Kaci: Where were you when you won your title? How did you win it?

Dan: Well, the closest I’ve ever come to winning is actually second place. I came in second place five times, in fact, I became known as “The Bridesmaid of Air Guitar,” or “The Avis of Air Guitar.” (I tried harder).

Kaci: How did you feel when you won your title?

Dan: When I took second place for the fifth time, I felt deflated—as any defeated air guitarist does; and yet in many ways, it turns out that being known as the second best air guitarist is kind of cooler than being the champion.

Kaci: Where have you traveled to compete?

Dan: I’ve competed in New York, Denver, Los Angeles and Finland and I’ve hosted competitions in scores of cities across the US—New York, Boston, Philly, Austin, Dallas, Houston, New Orleans, San Francisco, LA, Portland, Seattle, San Diego, and yes…even Phoenix. I’ve also hosted the World Air Guitar Championships in Oulu, Finland since 2008.

Kaci: Do you a have a specific routine for practicing?
Dan: Not really – I just make sure the music is very loud. My neighbors love it.

Kaci: What drives your passion? dan: I think what drives my passion is the same as any musician. It just happens that my instrument is invisible. KAci: How
do people react when you tell them about your title?

Dan: Pity.

Kaci: Where did your inspiration to begin playing come from?

Dan: I take my inspiration from guitar legends like Jimmy Page and Pete Townshend; but also from minimalist sculptor Richard Serra.

Kaci: Who is your musical idol?

Dan: Nietzche

Kaci: Do you play a real guitar? What type?

Dan: I prefer to not refer to it as a “real” guitar, as there is nothing unreal about air guitar. Instead, I prefer to call it “there” guitar. But yes, I do play there guitar in two bands, Nous Non Plus and The Quick Hellos.

Kaci: Do you have any advice for anybody interested in the art of “Aireoke”?

Dan: Come check out my lecture at MIM!

Kaci: Are you excited to be hosting a workshop at the MIM in Arizona?

Dan: I first toured the MIM about a year ago and was blown away. I was pleased to discover that they had an air guitar on display and wrote to them suggesting that perhaps I could come and lecture. I am truly honored that they accepted my invitation of myself.